Suspension For Officer In Cruelty Case

COCOA — A 20-year reserve officer with the Cocoa Police Department was suspended Thursday amid allegations of animal cruelty on a ranch he leases, officials said.

A letter advising Capt. Jack Moore of the suspension was sent to his Merritt Island attorney because police have been unable to locate Moore, said police Lieutenant B.G. Scott.

Neither Moore nor his attorney, Dan Ciener, could be reached for comment Thursday.

If the allegations are substantiated, Moore will be removed from the 13- member, unpaid reserve unit that he supervises, Scott said.

Eight dogs and an injured calf were confiscated Monday from the ranch near State Road 524 by animal control officers who said they found the animals without food, water and shade. Officials said Moore owns the animals but does not live on the ranch.

Brevard Humane Society officials are preparing evidence to present to the state attorney's office for possible prosecution, said Clara Gunde, director of the humane society's central branch. State Attorney Norm Wolfinger said Thursday his office will review the evidence to determine whether charges should be filed.

Animal cruelty is a misdemeanor and each count carries a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.